On the evening of February 24, 2026 — the solemn fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine — a powerful demonstration of solidarity unfolded on Habima Square in Tel Aviv.

What began as a rally transformed into a moment of collective memory and civic resolve. Hundreds of Israelis, Ukrainians, diplomats, and activists gathered not only to commemorate the date, but to stand firmly with Ukraine’s right to sovereignty and self-defense.

A Gathering With Meaning

Organized by Israeli Friends of Ukraine in cooperation with the Embassy of Ukraine in Israel, the event drew a diverse audience — local community members, Ukrainian Jews, Israeli citizens, foreign diplomats and representatives of partner countries.

Among the speakers were:

Yevgen Korniychuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Israel

Anna Zharova and Viacheslav Feldman, co-founders of Israeli Friends of Ukraine

Ilya Reznikov, former Minister of Defense of Ukraine

Oleksiy Anulya, a Ukrainian soldier freed from captivity

Rabbi Binyamin Minich, head of the Council of Reform Rabbis of Israel

Their speeches combined remembrance with determination.

Voices From the Stage

Ambassador Korniychuk quoted President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reminding the audience that “Putin has been taking Kyiv in three days — for four years now.” He thanked Israel for its support and encouraged participants to urge members of the Knesset to maintain active political backing for Ukraine.

Rabbi Minich, who is originally from annexed Crimea, declared: “Crimea is Ukraine,” before reciting the Kaddish in memory of the fallen.

Candles were lit. A minute of silence was observed. Flowers were laid at the square. The atmosphere was solemn but resolute.

This public solidarity has been closely documented by NAnews — Nikk.Agency Israel News, which covers Israel-Ukraine relations and the broader security context shaping both countries.

The full original report, including photos and video footage from the rally here: https://nikk.agency/v-podderzhku-ukrainy/

Shared Memory and Shared Threats

Speakers emphasized that Ukraine has resisted aggression for 1,461 days — despite predictions of rapid collapse in 2022. They also noted the common security challenges faced by Israel and Ukraine, including the use of Iranian-made drones and missile technology against civilian targets.

The rally became more than a commemorative event. It reflected a shared understanding: democratic societies under pressure must remain united.

What the Evening Signified

The gathering at Habima Square was not simply political. It was civic. It was human.

For Ukraine, February 24 marks both tragedy and resilience. For Israel, the rally served as a visible expression of solidarity rooted in democratic values and historical memory.

Under the Tel Aviv night sky, the message was clear: support for Ukraine remains present — not only at the diplomatic level, but in the public square.

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)